Lichens on cherry trees are harmless. They settle on the trunk and branches, sometimes look a bit bizarre in their variety of colors, but have no influence on the he alth or yield of the cherry trees.
Are lichens on cherry trees harmful?
Lichens on cherry trees are harmless and do not affect the he alth or yield of the tree. They are indicators of good air quality and only thrive when air pollution is low, but have no negative impact on the tree.
Interesting facts about lichens
Lichens are a symbiosis of fungi and green algae or cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae in common usage). They grow on the bark of trees without penetrating the interior of the wood. They are not parasites and therefore have no negative influence on the he alth of their host plant.
There are around 2,000 species of lichens in Central Europe, and around 1,500 of them can be found in Germany. The lichens grow very slowly and are therefore only clearly noticeable on the older trees. Lichens can grow very old.
Lichens as an indicator of good air
Lichens only thrive where air pollution is low. If lichens are noticeable on the cherry trees in the garden, this is a sure indication that the air quality in the area is improving. Since the lichens absorb their nutrients and water from the air, they react sensitively to any change in the air.
Are lichens harmful to cherry trees?
As is often the case, there are different opinions on this question. Among other things, it will pointed out the dangers of lichen infestation for the young shoots, which would be impaired in their growth. Furthermore, the surfaces of lichens are said to offer overwintering hiding places for pests and overall indicate poor care for cherry trees.
Lichens are also said to have the ability to bind precipitation moisture and thus promote pathogens. In addition, the infestation of cherry trees by lichens is said to indicate inadequate growth and therefore an unfavorable location and/or insufficient nutrient supply.
Tips & Tricks
Due to their modest demands, lichens often conquer extreme habitats, such as rusted metal, rock or plastic surfaces.
